According to The Guardian, Adam Gilchrist confirmed that his former Australia Test and Western Australia teammate was hospitalized, sharing the update in a statement released on behalf of the Martyn family.
“He is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn’s partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes,” Gilchrist said.
Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann, who was a longtime teammate of Martyn, also shared a message of support.
“Lots of love and prayers… keep strong and fighting, legend. Love to the family,” Lehmann wrote on X.
DAMIEN MARTYN DIAGNOSED WITH MENINGITIS
Martyn has been diagnosed with meningitis, a serious and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the brain and spinal cord’s protective membranes. The former Australian cricket star remains in critical condition in hospital, with medical teams closely monitoring and treating the infection.
Martyn is regarded as one of Australia’s most gifted batters, having played 67 Test matches and scored 4,406 runs at an impressive average of 46.37 between 1992 and 2006. A right-hander known for his elegance and resilience, he famously scored an unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final despite batting with a broken finger, helping Australia defeat India. Martyn’s career came to a sudden end during the 2005-06 Ashes series in England, when he retired midway through the tour after difficulties in the opening two Tests.
Born in Darwin, the right-handed batsman made his Test debut at 21, stepping in for the late Dean Jones during the 1992-93 home series against the West Indies. He became Western Australia’s captain at just 23. Martyn was named player of the series when Australia last won an away series in India, top-scoring in four of the team’s eight innings during the 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His highest Test score, 165, came against New Zealand in 2005, one of 13 centuries he notched while representing Australia in the Baggy Green.